ANNA McCormack’s commentary in The Catholic Leader (20/9/09), cannot go unchallenged.
To quote Anna, “Catholics, like other people, believe women should have the right to determine for themselves what to do about unwanted, unplanned pregnancy”.
This attitude is directly contrary to Catholic teaching, which states, “Human life must be respected and protected absolutely, from the moment of conception … Since the 1st century, the Church has affirmed the moral evil of every procured abortion. This teaching has not changed, and remains unchangeable. Abortion and infanticide are abominable crimes.” (Catechism of the Catholic Church 2270)
We, doctors, at the coalface, can testify to the damage abortion does (both in physical, mental, and spiritual ways) to the unborn, mothers and those close to them, and also to those who procure the abortions.
As Gaudium et Spes states, “Whatever is opposed to life itself … murder, abortion, euthanasia … these are infamies indeed. They poison human society, but do more harm to those who practice them, than those who suffer from the injury.”
But there is always hope in God’s mercy.
To end with some lines by G.K. Chesterton, in By the Babe Unborn:
“They should not hear a word from me
Of selfishness or scorn,
If only I could find the door
If only I was born,”
DR DAVID BAARTZ
Director of Gynaecology,
Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital
